Joint venture partners Unite Students and Manchester Metropolitan University have received approval from the Building Safety Regulator to commence the redevelopment of Cambridge Halls.
The scheme, which will comprise a mix of cluster flats, studios and postgraduate accommodation, will provide modern accommodation for 2,302 students at the heart of the university’s campus. The on-site amenity provision will include a rooftop exercise area and sports pitches.
The development is being delivered in two phases with the first phase featuring 1,101 beds receiving Gateway 2 approval to open for the start of the 2029/30 academic year and phase two, featuring 1,201 beds, opening the following year.
In taking a 30% ownership stake in the joint venture and contributing the value of its land, Manchester Metropolitan University has been able to retain capital for other initiatives in its campus masterplan.
Tom Brewerton, group development director at Unite Students, said: “This is another major milestone in the redevelopment of Cambridge Halls and our exciting partnership with Manchester Metropolitan University. We began the demolition of the former Cambridge Halls accommodation just seven months after agreeing the joint venture framework and are pleased to be able to move to the next phase of development.
“Purpose-built student accommodation is fundamental to the UK’s higher education sector and this partnership demonstrates the real benefits such collaborations can deliver for students, universities and local communities.”
Andrew Fallon, chief property officer at Manchester Metropolitan University, added: “It is exciting to reach another milestone in the continuing development of our city centre campus. Working alongside Unite Students, Cambridge Halls will deliver next generation student living at the heart of our university with enhanced shared public areas that will benefit our wider community. We look forward to seeing the scheme progress as we deliver on our commitment to delivering an outstanding student experience.”
